The colder months mean we will soon be on the lookout for sleet-covered streets, icy walkways and falling snow. But no one wakes up and says to themselves, “I’m going to fall today!” ChristianaCare HomeHealth Therapists, Nurses, and Aides teach our patients and their caregivers how to prevent falls, get up safely from a fall and even fall safely. Here is some guidance from our experts to make sure you don’t fall to the ground like a snowflake this winter.

Crucial tips for fall prevention in the winter months

  • Focus on staying safe during holidays. Decorations can be a tripping hazard. Ask for help from family, friends, or your community (church, senior center, etc.) to set them up safely. Avoid standing on ladders or furniture!
  • Keep pathways clear. Even small items can be dangerous. Secure extension cords outdoors with stakes or tuck them behind something. Avoid placing cords in the middle of pathways.
  • Avoid throw rugs. They are easy to trip over, and canes or walkers can get stuck on them.

Prepare for the cold weather

  • Shoveling. It may not be safe for you to shovel snow. Ask for help with outdoor weather management of your home and property. Know who you can ask for help from, such as neighbors, your HOA, church, or senior center, and set up a plan as far in advance of inclement weather as you can so you’re on their schedule.
  • Community resources. Remember, you’re not alone in this. ChristianaCare HomeHealth social workers can connect patients and their caregivers to a wealth of community resources for assistance. Help is always within reach.

Additional cold weather fall prevention tips

  • Wear supportive shoes. Ensure they have a good grip and fit snugly around your heel with a secure back, have enough room for your toes to wiggle in the front, and provide good arch support by properly lacing them up to distribute pressure evenly across your foot.
  • Wear grippy socks. If you do not wear shoes indoors, grippy socks can enhance stability and help reduce the risk of slipping indoors.
  • Keep hands out of pockets. This helps maintain balance when walking. Keeping your hands in your pockets while walking decreases your center of gravity and can throw off your balance. Wear gloves so you can keep your hands warm but free for balance.

Home safety for caregivers

Do you have guests coming to visit?

Home setup: Make sure the home is safe for loved ones. Is there a room for them to stay in on the first floor? Are there night lights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways? Keep paths clear and limit throw rugs.

Seating: If sitting at a table, use a chair with arms to help them up or place a cushion on their chair.

Oxygen safety: If your guest is on oxygen, avoid open flames such as candles or fireplaces, and be mindful of oxygen tubing. Remember, no smoking!

Don’t become a statistic

According to the American Geriatric Society, about 30% of community-dwelling seniors fall each year. The CDC reports that over 3 million emergency department visits are due to fall-related injuries yearly.

When you see your primary care provider, ask for a fall risk screening. Bring an updated medication list to your appointment, including over-the-counter medications, as they can interact with other medications and have side effects. Talk with your provider about possible side effects that can affect your balance.

Additional tips

  • How to fall properly. If you fall, try to relax your body and roll to minimize injury. Protect your head and avoid using your hands to break the fall.
  • Staying active. Engage in light exercises to maintain strength and balance. Chair exercises, stretching and gentle yoga can be beneficial to maintaining strength and flexibility. Check with your provider before starting a new exercise program.

Emergency preparedness

Get up safely after a fall. If you have injuries, health problems or other reasons that may make it easy for you to fall at home, it is a good idea to learn how to get up safely after a fall. Learning to get up correctly can help you avoid making an injury worse.

This video will help demonstrate how to get up safely after a fall.

Medical alert device. Always have some type of medical alert device or mobile phone with you in case you need to reach someone or call for help. Consider wearing a lanyard around your neck to hold your phone or a walker with a basket or attached pocket.

Stay safe and warm this winter! Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in preventing falls and ensuring a happy, healthy season.

Contact us about HomeHealth

If you or a loved one need in-home nursing care or in-home assistance, give us a call. We’re happy to help answer any of your questions. We have over 400+ professionals with experience managing many conditions and healthcare needs. We can help with daily tasks, pediatric and special care needs, Alzheimer’s, dementia, physical, occupational and speech therapy, pain management and more. In New Castle County, call us at 302-428-2700. In Kent and Sussex counties, call us at 302-698-4300 or visit us online.

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